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Fostering Growth & Intentional Leadership
in young boys and young men
Based in 6 foundational pillars (F.E.L.L.A.S)
The FELLAS youth group is designed to provide a supportive and inclusive environment for personal growth, leadership development, and community building.
Through a combination of workshops, discussions, mentorship, and hands-on activities, participants would gain valuable skills and knowledge in each of these six pillars, equipping them for success in various aspects of their lives.
In 1992, thirteen student athlete young men at Skyline High School in the Oakland Hills neighborhood became close friends. They came from diverse backgrounds, but all shared a desire to support each other through the challenges of high school and adolescence.
Over the years, the group developed a strong bond and decided to formalize their brotherhood by creating a name. They called themselves the "Fellas" and developed an acronym that embodied their values: Financial health, Emotional health, Love (self/family/community), Loyalty (Integrity), Academics, and Spirituality (F.E.L.L.A.S.).
The Fellas vowed to uplift each other in pursuing financial literacy, emotional wellbeing, healthy relationships, steadfast loyalty, academic achievement, and spiritual grounding. Though they were from different faiths, they respected each other's beliefs.
Throughout high school, the Fellas stuck together through good times and hard times. They motivated each other in their classes, sharing study tips, athletic success and even relationships. They had candid discussions about money management, girlfriend troubles, family issues, and finding purpose. Their bond grew stronger over the year.
After graduating in 1993, the Fellas scattered to different colleges but maintained their brotherhood. They stayed connected through friendships, annual reunions, a private online group, and meetups whenever possible. Their shared history and principles kept them tight even as life trajectories diverged.
Now in their mid to late-40s, the Fellas are a shining example in the Oakland community of long-lasting friendship, accountability, and mutual support. The acronym that defined their teenage years still resonates as a blueprint for well-rounded manhood.
Financial Health (F) / Emotional Health (E) / Love (L) / Loyalty (L) / Academics (A) / Spiritual (S)
The FELLAS youth group aims to provide a supportive and inclusive environment for personal growth, leadership development, and community building. Through a combination of workshops, discussions, mentorship, and hands-on activities, participants would gain valuable skills and knowledge in each of these six pillars, equipping them for success in various aspects of their lives.